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236 Ballads and Songs of Michigan
4 He came to our prison; he mourned our sad fate; He lanced out his gold to relieve our sad state. Five hundred bright guineas he gave, I am sure, Which greatly relieved us in that distressed hour.
5 But for this generous act the French did complain, They soon did confine him with fetters and chain. With us in the prison, 'twas there we might see, But from his chains and fetters we soon set him free.
6 Says Dighton, "My boys, it's down by the Altygo the
Tiger doth lie, A fine and nice coast, she's fit for the sea; And if you'll prove constant and stand by my side, We'll board her, my boys, and we'll sail the next tide."
7 At this adventure we all did agree,
Each breast loaded with ardor to fight and be free. "Come, give us your signal," each soldier replied, "We're ready to conquer and die by your side."
8 ..........
"Keep yourself cool, boys, my orders obey." Three galyant young seamen as seconds he chose; Our signal for freedom was death to our foes. |
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The three guns were fired, the French guards were slain,
Out of our prison we all rushed away.
We cut both of our cables and set out for sea.
10 It caused a sad rumor, it being made night, The French they bawled out in a terrible fright, "Mon Dieu, tofractors in England."1 Bells beaten, drums And our heroes shout "Freedom!" to each valyant soul.
11 Their ports were opened, their cannons did play, Their shot flew like hail as we got under way. They shattered our spars as we sailed from the shore, And to bid them goodbye we a broadside let pour.
12 Out of all danger we thought ourselves clear, But for this mistake we did pay very dear.
1The broadsides read "footer Engla." |
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